Explore Scotland’s Stunning Bluebell Woodlands
May is the perfect time to discover some of the best bluebell walks in Scotland, as woodlands across the country burst into colour with carpets of vibrant bluebells. They tend to be found in ancient woodlands, where they have had time to establish themselves and spread out over the woodland floor. More often than not, they are in beautiful oak woodlands that are lovely for walking in.
In days gone by, anyone picking bluebells risked being spirited away by fairies, and if you heard a bluebell bell ring, it was said to herald a visit from a malicious fairy. Nowadays, bluebells are a protected species, so please don’t pick them and stay on paths so as not to trample them underfoot.
Here is a roundup of the best places to see them around our parks this Spring.
Darroch Bluebell Wood, Blairgowrie
Located just on the outskirts of Blairgowrie, this woodland walk is ideal for visitors to our Blairgowrie Holiday Park. There is a circular walk around the woodland that is easily accessible from a small car park just off the Dunkeld Road. You could walk around in about 10-15 mins, but when the bluebells are in bloom, and the birds are singing, you will find yourself stopping to take in the jaw-dropping view of bluebells and also to take in the perfume of these lovely flowers. If you fancy a longer walk, there is an option to take in a couple of attractive lochs too.
Kinclaven Bluebell Wood, Perthshire
Just a few miles out of Blairgowrie, on lovely country roads, you will find Kinclaven Bluebell Wood. With a sea of dazzling bluebells flooding the forest floor in spring, it’s no wonder the ancient Kinclaven Bluebell Wood has been touted as one of Scotland’s finest bluebell woods. With stunning scenery, ancient beech trees and rare wildlife, as well as a rich history on its doorstep, this wood is a pleasure to visit. This woodland is now managed by Woodland Trust Scotland, which has also improved parking to make this woodland more accessible.
Inchcailloch Island, Loch Lomond
Inchcailloch is a beautiful, tranquil island within Loch Lomond. It’s full of wildlife, and in spring, carpets of bluebells line the island’s many walking trails. Inchcailloch is great for walking in any season, and this short circular route takes you around the whole island and up to the viewpoint (81m) where you will enjoy spectacular views across Loch Lomond. You’ll also pass a 13th-century church dedicated to St Kentigerna and an ancient burial ground. Why not take a picnic and relax at the beautiful Port Bawn beach?
Cruise Loch Lomond have boats out to the island a few times a day, leaving from the pier at Luss. For those looking to explore more of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Lomond Woods Holiday Park is ideally located just a short drive away, making it a great base for walking, wildlife spotting and days out on the loch.
Luss, Loch Lomond
In May, the hillside above the village of Luss is smothered with bluebells. The best way to view them is from the Quarry Path above the village. This 30-minute walk strikes a line up into the hills, where Luss water tumbles by one of the old mills and the quarry where men cleaved the rock to roof the tenement houses of 19th-century Glasgow.
Inversnaid, Loch Lomond
The eastern shore of Loch Lomond, especially the section between Rowardennan and Inversnaid, is lined with patches of bluebells in May. If you are not a serious walker, you can take the 30-minute crossing to Inversnaid from Tarbet with Cruise Loch Lomond, As well as the bluebells, you will find waterfalls, woodland walks and hidden beaches to explore, perfect for a family day out.
Duke’s Pass, The Trossachs
Duke’s Pass is the scenic A821 that links Aberfoyle and Loch Katrine via Loch Achray. It is regarded as one of Britain’s best drives and leads you through some of the most scenic parts of the Trossachs. In May, you can enjoy the bluebells along the roadside. It was originally built by the Duke of Montrose in the 19th century to improve access to his estate. Later, it was upgraded to accommodate the Victorian tourists drawn to the area after the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s epic poem ‘The Lady of the Lake’, which celebrates the beauty of Loch Katrine.
For visitors looking to explore more of the Trossachs, Callander Woods Holiday Park is ideally located for discovering scenic routes such as Duke’s Pass, Loch Katrine and the surrounding countryside.
